CANADIAN prime minister Justin Trudeau suffered a major political blow when a small leftist faction in parliament pulled its support for his minority Liberal government.
"Today, I notified the prime minister that I've ripped up the supply and confidence agreement," New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh said in an online video on Wednesday (4).
The move means the Liberals -- at a time when both they and the NDP are trailing far behind the Conservatives in public opinion surveys -- will have to find other support in parliament in order to survive confidence votes and avoid possible snap elections.
In his message, Singh did not mince words: "The Liberals are too weak, too selfish and too beholden to corporate interests to fight for people. They cannot be the change. They cannot restore the hope."
He also accused Justin Trudeau of not being able to take on the Conservative opposition.
“Justin Trudeau has proven again and again he will always cave to corporate greed. The Liberals have let people down. They don't deserve another chance from Canadians,” the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC News) said quoting Singh as saying in the video.
Singh said the Liberals will not stand up to corporate interests and he will be running in the next election to “stop Conservative cuts,” it said.
FILE PHOTO: Justin Trudeau (L) and Jagmeet Singh get ready for the start of the federal election English-language Leaders debate in Gatineau, Quebec, Canada on September 9, 2021. (Photo by JUSTIN TANG/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
An NDP spokesperson told CBC News the plan to end the agreement had been in the works for the past two weeks but it informed the Liberal government of the decision barely minutes ahead of the video going live online.
The deal to prop up the Liberals, inked in 2022 six months after Trudeau returned for a third term, was intended to remain in place until 2025.
Pierre Poilievre, leader of the main opposition Conservatives, had urged Singh to kill it in a letter last week.
"I'm focused on Canadians. I'll let the other parties focus on politics," Trudeau reacted at a news conference during a stop in Newfoundland province, listing achievements of the Liberal-NDP alliance including a national dental programme and a law against the use of replacement workers during a strike.
“I really hope the NDP stays focused on how we can deliver for Canadians, as we have over the past years, rather than focusing on politics,” the CBC News quoted Trudeau as saying.
Trudeau said he hoped the next election will not happen “until next fall” so that his government had time to move forward on pharmacare, dental care and school food programmes.
The House of Commons of Canada currently has 154 Liberal members of Parliament, 119 Conservatives, 32 Bloc Quebecois MPs, 24 NDP MPs, two Greens, three independents and four vacancies.
Lawmakers are due to return to work in Ottawa on September 16.
Political analysts said it's unlikely Canada will go to the polls before spring 2025.
"As a general rule, we avoid elections in the winter because of the climate, because we can have storms," explained Stephanie Chouinard, a politics professor at Queen's University.
"It's a safe bet that the government will fall around the budget in the spring because, in the immediate future, no minority group has an interest in the elections being held now, except the Conservatives," she said.
According to an Angus Reid poll published Wednesday, the Conservatives are well ahead of the Liberals, with 43 per cent of voting intentions against 21 per cent for the ruling party. The NDP is at 19 per cent.
Felix Mathieu of the University of Winnipeg agreed. He noted that by convention, federal and provincial elections are not held at the same time, and three provinces are scheduled to head to the polls over the coming months.
The NDP move is widely seen as a political calculation, with Singh intending to hold a press conference on Thursday (5).
The party's members likely felt stifled by the pact and that the party "needed a breath of fresh air. They needed some kind of shot to the arm. They needed some energy," according to Dalhousie University politics professor Lori Turnbull.
The NDP deal with the ruling Liberals, she said, has also run its course as legislation on NDP priorities have all been passed. The NDP "doesn't have the leverage to pressure the Liberals to do more. And they figured they probably have more leverage on the outside."
PRIME MINISTER Sir Keir Starmer has announced a full statutory national inquiry into child sexual abuse, reversing his earlier position following months of mounting pressure, including criticism from US billionaire Elon Musk.
The decision comes after an audit conducted by Baroness Louise Casey recommended a national investigation into the scale and nature of group-based child sexual abuse. The inquiry will cover England and Wales and will have statutory powers under the Inquiries Act, allowing it to compel witnesses to provide evidence.
Speaking to reporters on his way to the G7 summit in Canada, Starmer explained his change of stance: "I have never said we should not look again at any issue. That's why I asked Louise Casey, who I hugely respect, to do an audit.
"Her position when she started the audit was that there was not a real need for a national inquiry. But she has looked at the material and has come to the view that there should be a national inquiry. I have read every single word of her report, and I am going to accept her recommendation."
The scandal, which came to public attention over a decade ago, involves the sexual exploitation of thousands of girls, mostly white and from disadvantaged backgrounds, by gangs of men, often of Pakistani descent. These gangs operated in several English towns and cities, including Rotherham, Rochdale, Oxford, and Bristol, for nearly forty years.
Baroness Casey’s audit was commissioned in January by home secretary Yvette Cooper, who requested a "rapid audit" into the data and evidence around group-based exploitation.
Cooper said the review examined both the demographics of the gangs and the victims, as well as cultural factors driving the crimes. Although originally intended to take three months, the review was delayed. Earlier this month, Home Office Minister Jess Phillips apologised for the delay, saying Casey had requested a short extension.
At the beginning of the year, the government had resisted calls for a national inquiry, arguing that the issue had already been examined during the seven-year inquiry led by Professor Alexis Jay.
Nick Tenconi, Interim Leader of the UK Independence Party (UKIP) and Chief Operating Officer of Turning Point UK (centre) poses with banners during a protest calling for justice for victims of sexual abuse, outside the council offices at City Centre on January 20, 2025 in Oldham, England. (Photo by Anthony Devlin/Getty Images)
Instead, Cooper announced five local government-backed inquiries, one in Oldham and four others in areas yet to be named. These local investigations will still proceed, but now form part of the wider statutory national inquiry.
Saturday’s (14) announcement follows growing public and political pressure, intensified by interventions from Musk. In January, Musk used his social media platform X to criticise the British government for failing to launch a national inquiry. On Saturday, Musk responded to the announcement by reposting a comment thanking him for raising awareness, saying he was "glad to hear this is happening."
The move has drawn sharp criticism from opposition politicians, who accuse Starmer of delaying action. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, who has long pushed for a national inquiry, said: "Keir Starmer doesn’t know what he thinks unless an official report has told him so. I've been repeatedly calling for a full national inquiry since January. Many survivors of the grooming gangs will be relieved that this is finally happening. But they need a resolution soon, not in 10 years' time."
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage also welcomed the decision but warned against any attempt to water down the investigation. "A full statutory inquiry, done correctly, will expose the multiple failings of the British establishment. This cannot be a whitewash. It’s time for victims to receive the justice they deserve and for perpetrators to face the full force of the law," he posted on X.
Former Reform UK MP Rupert Lowe credited Musk’s involvement as pivotal in forcing the government’s hand. "None of this would have happened without Elon Musk. No inquiry, no justice, nothing. He deserves huge credit for that," Lowe said. Musk simply replied with a heart emoji.
Cooper is expected to address Parliament on Monday (16), with Baroness Casey’s full report scheduled to be published at the same time.
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A one-hour delay in sleep routine is linked to a sharper drop in cognition over time, the study found
A night owl, or an evening person with a late sleep-wake cycle, could be at a higher risk of cognitive decline with age compared to an early bird or a morning person, a study has found.
Chronotype refers to one’s sleep-wake type or times during the day when one naturally tends to be awake and asleep. A ‘night owl’ chronotype is said to have a later sleep-wake cycle, compared to an ‘early bird’ or a ‘lark’.
“Are you an early bird or a night owl? It’s hard to adjust what your biological clock – your so-called chronotype – is, but you can adjust your life to it as best you can,” study author Ana Wenzler, from the University Medical Center Groningen, the Netherlands, said.
Analysing the performance of about 23,800 participants on a cognitive test over a period of 10 years, the study found that ‘evening’ people decline cognitively faster than ‘morning’ people. The findings have been published in the Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease.
“Unhealthy behaviour such as smoking, drinking and unhealthy eating happens more often in the evening,” Wenzler said.
“In our study, we also saw this: evening people smoke and drink more often and exercise less. Twenty-five per cent of the risk of cognitive decline can be explained from our research by smoking and poor sleep,” she said.
A greater decline was seen in higher-educated people – a delay of an hour in the sleep-wake cycle corresponded to a decline of 0.8 in cognition per decade. Wenzler said the decline might be related to their disturbed sleep rhythm.
“They are often people who have to go back to work early in the morning and are likely to sleep too short, giving their brains too little rest,” she said.
The author explained that people’s biological clock can change with age.
“Children are morning people. That changes when you reach puberty, when you become an evening person. Around your 20s, that gradually shifts back towards morning people for most people. By the age of 40, most people are morning people again,” Wenzler said.
However, this is certainly not the case for everyone, which is probably why evening people deviate from the norm, according to Wenzler, who recommended working against one’s body “as little as possible”.
“’You can try to go to sleep earlier, but if your body is not yet producing melatonin (sleep hormone), it will not work,” she said.
Wenzler added that if people are forced to work against their natural rhythm, their brains may not get enough rest, increasing the risk of unhealthy habits. “It would help if evening types were given the option to start work later,” she said.
Popular actor Shivam Khajuria has showcased his impressive talent in top TV serials such as Molkki, Mann Sundar and Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai.
He is currently displaying that range in the hugely popular drama Anupamaa, earning wide acclaim. Away from the small screen, the television star is also a passionate cinema lover. He shared his all-time favourite films with Eastern Eye.
Rockstar: This musical struck a chord with me like few others ever have. Ranbir Kapoor’s portrayal of Jordan was raw, flawed and deeply human. The emotional intensity, combined with AR Rahman’s soul-stirring music, made the film unforgettable. It was not just a love story – it was a journey through pain, passion and transformation. Despite its imperfections, it revealed a side of Bollywood I had never seen – bold, poetic and heartbreakingly real.
Rockstar
A Few Good Men: This acclaimed courtroom drama was a game-changer for me. The performances by Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson and Demi Moore were outstanding. The moral complexity and intensity of the trial – and the way justice was questioned – left a deep impact. It even made me briefly consider a career in law. A classic example of storytelling done right.
James Bond movies: The James Bond series was a big part of my childhood. I was fascinated by Bond’s style, intelligence and smooth confidence. From sleek cars and high-tech gadgets to exotic locations, each film was an escape into a thrilling world of espionage. That iconic introduction – “Bond, James Bond” – never got old. These films made me fall in love with cinematic flair and unforgettable characters.
Final Destination movies: This is one of the few horror franchises that genuinely creeped me out while keeping me hooked. The way fate played out in twisted, unpredictable ways was both terrifying and clever. Each death scene was creatively executed, and I constantly wondered what bizarre turn would come next. These were not just horror films – they were suspenseful, imaginative, and a chilling reminder that we cannot always outrun destiny.
Se7en: This haunting crime thriller is one of those films that stays with you long after the credits roll. The gritty visuals and slow-building tension led to a shocking climax that left me speechless. Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman delivered exceptional performances. It explored the darkest sides of human nature in a way that was disturbing, powerful and unforgettable.
A still from a James Bond film
Gangs of Wasseypur: This film redefined Indian cinema for me. It was gritty, raw and unapologetically honest. A crime saga set against the backdrop of coal mafia rivalries, it felt more real than fictional. Anurag Kashyap’s bold direction and layered storytelling, combined with stellar performances, made it unforgettable. It was not just a film – it was an experience.
Border: This iconic army drama was my first real dive into war cinema, and it moved me deeply. It depicted not only the battlefield action but also the emotional struggles of soldiers and their families. The music, camaraderie and heartbreaking losses captured the true essence of patriotism and sacrifice. It made me appreciate the strength of those who serve the country.
The Sixth Sense: This psychological thriller completely blew my mind. The storytelling, the atmosphere and that unforgettable twist at the end were pure cinematic brilliance. I still remember the chill I felt during the final reveal. It was not just a thriller – it was a psychological deep dive that changed the way I watch films. A masterclass in suspense and detail.
Interstellar
3 Idiots: Every Indian student relates to this film in some way. It was humorous, emotional and thought-provoking. It challenged the rigid education system and encouraged viewers to pursue passion over pressure. Aamir Khan’s performance stood out, but the entire cast brought warmth and relatability to the story. It made me laugh, cry and reflect – more than just entertainment, it was a life lesson.
Interstellar: This is more than a science fiction film – it is an emotional journey through time, space and human connection. The way it combines complex scientific concepts with deeply personal storytelling is extraordinary. The visuals are breath-taking, the soundtrack is unforgettable, and the exploration of time as a dimension is mind-bending. It made me think, dream and feel. For me, it comes close to being a perfect film.
Instagram: @khajuriashivam24
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Temba Bavuma of South Africa lifts the ICC World Test Championship Mace with teammates following his team's victory on Day Four of the WTC final against Australia at Lord's Cricket Ground on June 14. (Photo: Getty Images)
AIDEN MARKRAM's century helped South Africa secure a five-wicket win over Australia in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s on Saturday. With this result, South Africa claimed their first major global title in men’s cricket.
Set 282 to win, South Africa reached the target before lunch on the fourth day, finishing on 282-5. Markram was dismissed for 136 after bringing his team to within six runs of victory.
The Proteas resumed on 213-2, needing 69 runs more. Markram, who had been out for a duck in the first innings, was unbeaten on 102 at the start of the day. Captain Temba Bavuma was on 65 despite struggling with a hamstring injury.
South Africa’s history in knockout games had often been marked by defeats, including 18 failed attempts in previous ODI and T20 World Cups. They had only reached one final before this – last year’s T20 World Cup in Barbados, where they lost to India after requiring just 30 runs from the last 30 balls with six wickets in hand.
On Saturday, however, South Africa held on to win. A team without many big names succeeded where players like Allan Donald, Shaun Pollock, AB de Villiers and Jacques Kallis had not.
South Africa had an early setback when Bavuma, adding only one run to his overnight score, was caught behind off Australia captain Pat Cummins. His partnership with Markram ended at 147, but South Africa were still in control at 217-3.
With clear skies and a flat pitch, conditions were in the batters’ favour. Markram continued, cutting Cummins for four and later pulling him again to bring the target down to 50.
Cummins brought on Nathan Lyon, hoping for spin. But it was Mitchell Starc who got a breakthrough, bowling Tristan Stubbs for eight with a delivery that cut in sharply.
Australia took the new ball with South Africa at 268-4, needing just 14 more runs. Markram then drove Josh Hazlewood’s first ball for four and followed it up with three more runs off the next.
He fell shortly after, pulling Hazlewood to Travis Head at midwicket. His 207-ball innings included 14 fours.
Markram walked back to a standing ovation. Several Australian players shook his hand.
Kyle Verreynne then scored the winning run. He might have been out had Australia had any reviews remaining. South Africa’s 282-5 became the second-highest fourth-innings chase in a Lord’s Test, behind the West Indies’ 344-1 against England in 1984.
Kagiso Rabada also played a key role in the victory, finishing with match figures of 9-110.
(With inputs from agencies)
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King Charles, wearing a black armband to pay respects to the victims of Air India plane crash, attends the Trooping the Colour parade on his official birthday in London. (Photo: Reuters)
A MINUTE's silence for the victims of the Air India plane crash was observed on Saturday during the Trooping the Colour parade in London marking King Charles's official birthday. Some members of the royal family wore black armbands during the ceremony.
A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said King Charles, 76, had requested changes to the parade “as a mark of respect for the lives lost, the families in mourning and all the communities affected by this awful tragedy”.
The crash on Thursday involved a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner that was taking off from Ahmedabad in eastern India and heading to London's Gatwick Airport. A total of 279 people, including passengers, crew and individuals on the ground, were killed.
Among the victims were 52 Britons. The only survivor identified so far is British national Vishwash Kumar Ramesh from Leicester.
Following the disaster, King Charles said in a written statement that he was “desperately shocked by the terrible events” and extended his “deepest possible sympathy”.
Royal family attends parade
Trooping the Colour is a military tradition that dates back over 200 years and marks the monarch's official birthday. The event begins at Buckingham Palace, proceeds down The Mall, and concludes at Horse Guards Parade, where the King receives a royal salute and inspects the troops.
Hundreds of people gathered along The Mall and outside the palace to view the event. A small group of anti-monarchy protesters were present, carrying yellow signs that read “not my king” and “down with the crown”.
King Charles, who continues weekly treatment for an unspecified cancer, was accompanied by Queen Camilla. Also present were Prince William, 42, his wife Catherine, and their children George, 11, Charlotte, 10, and Louis, seven.
No appearance by Harry and Meghan
Catherine, 43, the Princess of Wales, had earlier announced in March 2024 that she had been diagnosed with an unspecified cancer. In January 2025, she said she was “in remission” and has since gradually resumed public engagements.
Prince Harry and his wife Meghan did not attend the event. The couple stepped down from royal duties in 2020 and now live in the United States. Reports in the UK media suggest that relations between Harry and other members of the royal family remain strained, with minimal communication between him and his brother William.
Although Trooping the Colour is held in June, King Charles was born in November. The tradition of a second birthday celebration was introduced in 1748 by King George II to ensure the monarch’s birthday could be marked in better weather.
Saturday's parade coincided with a major military parade in Washington led by US President Donald Trump on his 79th birthday.